Hungary warns refugees against illegal entry

The Hungarian government published an announcement in Lebanese Al-Nahar newspaper yesterday revealing its intention to take “strict” action against those who attempt to illegally enter its territory, calling on those considering illegal immigration not to listen to the smugglers.

The government statement, which was published in both Arabic and English on a full page in the paper, addressed Syrian refugees (without explicitly mentioning them), saying: “Hungarians are friendly people who are known for their hospitality, but the strongest possible action will be taken against those who attempt to enter Hungary illegally.”

The announcement added that “crossing Hungary’s international borders illegally, according to Hungarian law, is a crime punishable by a prison sentence,” adding, “Do not listen to the people-smugglers.”

The statement, which included the Hungarian government’s signature, concluded that “Hungary will not allow illegal immigrants to cross its territory”.

The Hungarian government’s announcement is the second time a European country has placed an advertisement of this kind, the Danish government published a similar statement in several Lebanese newspapers on 7 September, in which it declared that “it will tighten its regulations with regards to refugees in several areas and that it will reduce social aid for newly-arrived refugees by up to 50 per cent.”